Word of the Day: Defunct
What's the story
"Defunct" (adjective) describes something that no longer exists, operates, or functions. It's often used for things that have stopped working, such as organisations, systems, or objects that were once active but are now gone or outdated. Let's learn more about this word and how to use it.
Origin
Origin of the word
The word "defunct" comes from the Latin word defunctus, meaning "dead" or "finished." It entered English in the 16th century to describe things that have ended or ceased to function. Today, it's often used for institutions, ideas, or machines that no longer exist or serve their purpose.
Synonyms
Synonyms for 'defunct'
Some common synonyms for "defunct" include obsolete, extinct, inactive, discontinued, vanished, and nonexistent. All these words describe something that once existed or worked but no longer does. They're often used to talk about old systems, traditions, or technologies that have lost relevance or stopped functioning.
Usage
Sentence usage
Here's how "defunct" can appear in sentences: "The factory has been 'defunct' for over a decade." "Many believe printed newspapers will soon become 'defunct.'" "That law is now 'defunct'and no longer applies."
Writing
Why use the word
The word "defunct" is perfect when you want to show that something has ended or no longer works. It adds a sense of finality and history to your writing, especially when describing outdated systems, closed businesses, or vanished traditions. It's a concise way to say that something belongs to the past.